SSP's son held after DHA checkpoint clash

Conflicting accounts prompt an official inquiry

KARACHI:

A late-night police check in DHA spiraled into a high-profile confrontation involving the son of a senior police officer and a police sub-inspector, triggering an arrest, viral videos, and a formal inquiry into the incident.

The clash occurred during snap checking in Phase VII, where police stopped a double-cabin vehicle fitted with police-style lights and an allegedly fake number plate. What followed was a heated exchange between the driver - later identified as Khubaib, son of SSP Naseem Ara Panhwar - and Sub-Inspector Shahzaib Shakeel, the in-charge of the Qayyumabad police post.

In videos recorded from both sides, the situation quickly escalates. Police footage shows the officer accusing the young man of hurling abuses and grabbing his collar, while repeatedly warning him to remain respectful. A separate clip, filmed by the accused, captures the officer retorting, "what is so special about being an SSP's son? I am one too," as tensions mount.

Police later registered a case and arrested Khubaib on charges including obstruction of duty, impersonation, and use of a fake number plate, along with allegations of misconduct and physical confrontation. Authorities said the vehicle carried unauthorised police fittings, including tinted windows and official-style lights.

According to the FIR, the suspect allegedly refused to identify himself, claimed his mother was a senior officer, and directed armed guards accompanying him to push the officer aside. The complainant further alleged that during an attempt to detain him, the suspect grabbed his collar, used abusive language, and fled the scene with his guards.

However, the accused's father, Ali Anwar, presented a sharply different account. Speaking to reporters, he claimed that after the incident, both he and his wife - SSP Naseem Ara Panhwar - visited the police station, where the officer in question apologised and even "held his wife's feet" in remorse. He said the family cooperated fully, handing over the vehicle, but alleged that the situation changed dramatically after the video went viral.

Police officials confirmed that an inquiry has been ordered by SSP South, who has appointed SP Clifton Khalid Javed as the investigation officer. The probe will examine the conduct of all parties, including the actions of the police personnel involved.